The Stair Runner: A Small Upgrade That Makes a Big Difference

The need for a Stair Runner

In most homes, the staircase sits front and center—often right by the front door. When our first son was born, we lived in a cozy Cape Cod with a steep staircase just inside the entry. The entire house, stairs included, had wood floors. While pregnant, I slipped down a few steps (thankfully without injury), but it was a wake-up call. I realized how easily kids—or even adults—could take a tumble. A stair runner quickly became a top priority on our to-do list.

Safety Meets Style

No matter where your staircase is located, the risk of slipping is real. Stair runners offer a practical safety solution—and they can be beautiful, too. They’re a great way to introduce pattern, texture, or color into a space that often feels bare. Since stairwells typically have minimal competing decor, a bold runner can shine. Patterns also do a great job of hiding dirt and stains, making them a smart and stylish choice.

Our Experience with Stair Runners

In our first home, we installed a striped runner from Dash & Albert, and it held up incredibly well—even with two boys constantly crawling and climbing on it. It was easy to vacuum, and I could spot-clean any messes without much trouble (though there weren’t many!).

DIY vs. Professional Installation

If your stairs have wooden treads, a runner is more than just a good idea—it’s a must. You have two options: hire a professional installer or tackle it yourself. I chose the DIY route and followed a tutorial from Young House Love. All I needed was a staple gun and some staples. I used the same tools years later to install a runner in our new house.

Stair Runner Built for Busy Families

Both of our stair runners have survived daily use from not only our two boys, but also five nephews. If it can hold up to that level of traffic, it will likely hold up just fine in your home, too.

Whether you DIY or hire someone, a stair runner is one of those upgrades that genuinely changes how your home feels. Why walk up a hard, noisy staircase when you could enjoy a soft, quiet, and beautiful one?